Melissa Chokshi, RN, BS,CNOR(E), ONC
Summary
Patient-oriented Nurse with 24 years of diverse experience in direct patient care, staff supervision and department operations. Skilled at multitasking and prioritizing patient needs and daily assignments. Offering expertise with Orthopedic and Surgical specialties.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Orthopedic Nurse Navigator
Hartford Healthcare
01.2019 - 07.2020
- Enhanced patient outcomes by developing individualized care plans and coordinating with interdisciplinary teams.
- Streamlined patient education process for orthopedic procedures, increasing comprehension and adherence to treatment plans.
- Reduced hospital readmission rates by providing comprehensive discharge instructions and follow-up support.
- Improved patient satisfaction scores by consistently delivering empathetic and knowledgeable nursing care.
- Contributed to the development of evidence-based protocols for orthopedic conditions, promoting best practices across the department.
- Served as a liaison between patients, families, and medical staff for clear communication regarding care decisions.
- Participated in quality improvement initiatives within the orthopedic department, driving continuous improvement in patient outcomes and safety measures.
- Evaluated patient progress throughout their recovery journey, adjusting care plans as necessary to address any complications or setbacks effectively.
- Supported clinical research efforts within the orthopedic department by collecting data on patient experiences and outcomes related to various treatment approaches.
- Developed strong relationships with community organizations to facilitate access to resources such as rehabilitation services or home health support for patients upon discharge from the hospital setting.
- Conducted comprehensive assessments of orthopedic patients to identify individual needs, preferences, and goals for personalized care plans.
- Promoted a collaborative healthcare environment by actively participating in interdisciplinary meetings, advocating for optimal patient outcomes, and fostering open communication among team members.
- Scheduled appointments, educational meetings and follow-ups for patients and family members.
- Equipped patients with tools and knowledge needed for speedy and sustained recovery.
Operating Room Registered Nurse
Day Kimball Hospital
01.2002 - 06.2016
- Enhanced patient safety by implementing strict adherence to surgical protocols and guidelines.
- Reduced postoperative complications through vigilant monitoring of patients during surgery.
- Managed efficient use of operating room resources, streamlining procedures and minimizing waste.
- Provided high-quality care for diverse patient populations, addressing individual needs and concerns.
- Assisted in complex surgeries with precise execution of tasks, ensuring optimal outcomes for patients.
- Served as a liaison between the surgical team and family members, providing timely updates on patient progress.
- Maintained a sterile environment within the operating room, reducing the risk of infection.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive care plans for pre-and post-operative patients.
- Conducted thorough preoperative assessments to identify potential risks and address concerns prior to surgery.
- Streamlined communication among surgical team members, facilitating efficient flow of information during critical moments in surgery.
- Participated in quality improvement initiatives to optimize patient outcomes and enhance OR practices.
- Provided compassionate support to patients during recovery, monitoring vital signs and administering medications as needed.
- Continually updated knowledge on best practices in nursing care through ongoing professional development opportunities.
- Mentored new nurses entering the profession, guiding them through their initial experiences within the operating room setting.
- Prepared equipment and supplies necessary for each surgical procedure, ensuring availability when needed by surgeons.
- Contributed to interdisciplinary meetings by sharing expertise on operating room processes and patient care requirements.
- Implemented time-out protocols before starting surgeries, verifying correct patient identification and procedural details.
- Adapted quickly to changing situations in the operating room, utilizing problem-solving skills under pressure.
- Promoted a culture of teamwork within the surgical suite by fostering open communication and collaboration among colleagues.
- Prepped operating rooms to comply with environmental asepsis standards.
- Provided direct support to surgical team during procedures.
- Advocated for and strived to protect health, safety, and rights of patient.
- Collected, labeled and transported specimens and delivered to lab for testing.
- Trained new nurses in proper techniques, care standards, operational procedures, and safety protocols.
- Provided effective bedside care to patients before and after procedures to deliver comfort.
- Collaborated with members of patients' healthcare team to deliver appropriate level of care.
- Communicated with healthcare team members to plan, implement and enhance treatment strategies.
- Followed all personal and health data procedures to effectively comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- Monitored patient reactions after administering medications and IV therapies.
- Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
- Managed patients recovering from medical or surgical procedures.
- Documented treatments delivered, medications and IVs administered, discharge instructions, and follow-up care.
- Used first-hand knowledge and clinical expertise to advocate for patients under care and enacted prescribed treatment strategies.
- Educated family members and caregivers on patient care instructions.
- Investigated and resolved issues affecting hospital operations and patient care.
Operating Room Registered Nurse
Windham Community Memorial Hospital
09.1999 - 01.2002
- Enhanced patient safety by implementing strict adherence to surgical protocols and guidelines.
- Reduced postoperative complications through vigilant monitoring of patients during surgery.
- Managed efficient use of operating room resources, streamlining procedures and minimizing waste.
- Provided high-quality care for diverse patient populations, addressing individual needs and concerns.
- Assisted in complex surgeries with precise execution of tasks, ensuring optimal outcomes for patients.
- Served as a liaison between the surgical team and family members, providing timely updates on patient progress.
- Maintained a sterile environment within the operating room, reducing the risk of infection.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive care plans for pre-and post-operative patients.
- Conducted thorough preoperative assessments to identify potential risks and address concerns prior to surgery.
- Streamlined communication among surgical team members, facilitating efficient flow of information during critical moments in surgery.
- Participated in quality improvement initiatives to optimize patient outcomes and enhance OR practices.
- Provided compassionate support to patients during recovery, monitoring vital signs and administering medications as needed.
- Continually updated knowledge on best practices in nursing care through ongoing professional development opportunities.
- Prepared equipment and supplies necessary for each surgical procedure, ensuring availability when needed by surgeons.
- Implemented time-out protocols before starting surgeries, verifying correct patient identification and procedural details.
- Contributed to interdisciplinary meetings by sharing expertise on operating room processes and patient care requirements.
- Adapted quickly to changing situations in the operating room, utilizing problem-solving skills under pressure.
- Promoted a culture of teamwork within the surgical suite by fostering open communication and collaboration among colleagues.
- Prepped operating rooms to comply with environmental asepsis standards.
- Provided direct support to surgical team during procedures.
- Advocated for and strived to protect health, safety, and rights of patient.
- Collected, labeled and transported specimens and delivered to lab for testing.
- Provided effective bedside care to patients before and after procedures to deliver comfort.
- Collaborated with members of patients' healthcare team to deliver appropriate level of care.
- Followed all personal and health data procedures to effectively comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- Monitored patient reactions after administering medications and IV therapies.
- Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
- Managed patients recovering from medical or surgical procedures.
- Documented treatments delivered, medications and IVs administered, discharge instructions, and follow-up care.
- Used first-hand knowledge and clinical expertise to advocate for patients under care and enacted prescribed treatment strategies.
Registered Nurse, Medical-Surgical Unit
Day Kimball Hospital
05.1999 - 09.1999
- Began as a Graduate Nurse on the Medical Surgical unit including Pediatrics
- Passed NCLEX exam July 1999 after waiting period
- Performed Charge Nurse duties on third shift
- Improved patient outcomes by providing comprehensive assessments and developing individualized care plans.
- Enhanced patient satisfaction with compassionate, personalized nursing care tailored to each individual''s needs.
- Reduced hospital readmissions by implementing evidence-based discharge planning and coordinating follow-up appointments.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams for optimal patient care, ensuring seamless communication between healthcare providers.
- Streamlined medication administration processes, reducing medication errors and enhancing patient safety.
- Developed strong rapport with patients and families through active listening, empathy, and clear communication during challenging situations.
- Provided education on disease management strategies to empower patients in self-care activities throughout their recovery journey.
- Demonstrated flexibility in managing multiple priorities concurrently during high-stress periods while maintaining a calm demeanor.
- Effectively managed acute pain symptoms by administering medications as prescribed while monitoring for potential side effects.
- Implemented fall prevention strategies to minimize patient injuries and promote a safe environment within the medical-surgical unit.
- Skillfully performed venipuncture, IV insertion, and catheterizations, ensuring proper technique and adherence to infection control standards.
- Consistently maintained accurate documentation of patient assessments, interventions, and outcomes in accordance with regulatory requirements.
- Administered medications and treatment to patients and monitored responses while working with healthcare teams to adjust care plans.
- Started intravenous fluids, administered medications, and documented patient charts by recording food and fluid output and intake.
- Provided health education to patients and families regarding discharge instructions and plans of care.
- Educated patients and families on medical-surgical procedures, therapeutic regimens, and pain management techniques.
Medical Assistant/RN
St Luke's Family Practice
10.1993 - 08.1999
- Enhanced clinic efficiency by assisting physicians with routine procedures and diagnostic tests.
- Facilitated seamless patient care with thorough and accurate documentation of medical histories, vital signs, and medications.
- Ensured patient safety and comfort during examinations, effectively addressing concerns and answering questions.
- Streamlined office operations by managing inventory levels, ordering supplies, and organizing storage areas.
- Boosted patient satisfaction by providing compassionate care and promptly addressing needs during visits.
- Maintained strict adherence to infection control protocols by following proper sterilization techniques for medical equipment.
- Contributed to positive health outcomes by educating patients on preventative measures, treatment plans, and follow-up care instructions.
- Performed phlebotomy tasks efficiently while ensuring minimal discomfort for patients during blood collection procedures.
- Built strong relationships with patients through effective communication skills that foster trust in the clinic''s commitment to quality care.
- Maintained a safe and clean clinical environment by adhering to infection control guidelines and disposing of biohazardous waste properly.
- Sanitized, restocked, and organized exam rooms and medical equipment.
- Directed patients to exam rooms, fielded questions, and prepared for physician examinations.
- Obtained client medical history, medication information, symptoms, and allergies.
- Collected and documented patient medical information such as blood pressure and weight.
- Documented vital signs and health history for patients in clinic and hospital environments.
- Assisted with routine checks and diagnostic testing by collecting and processing specimens.
- Assisted physicians with minor surgeries, including preparing and sterilizing instruments.
- Completed clinical procedures and gathered patient data for interpretation by physician.
- Obtained and documented patient medical history, vital signs and current complaints at intake.
- Triaged telephone calls to offer office information, answer questions, and direct calls to staff.
- Completed EKGs and other tests based on patient presentation in office.
- Prepared lab specimens for diagnostic evaluation.
- Worked Per Diem as RN after graduation
Education
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
University of Connecticut
Storrs, CT05.1999
Associate of Science - Medical Assisting
Quinebaug Valley Community College
Danielson, CT12.1995
Skills
- Orthopedic assessment
- Organizational skills
- Clinical Documentation
- Teamwork and Cooperation
- Care Coordination
- Patient education
- Empathy and compassion
- Pre-operative planning
- Orthopedic surgery expertise
- Patient Confidentiality
- Clinical Assessment
- Pain management
- Post Operative Care
Certification
- ONC Orthopedic Nurse Certified
- CNOR(E) Certified Nurse Operating Room Emeritus
Timeline
Orthopedic Nurse Navigator
Hartford Healthcare
01.2019 - 07.2020
Operating Room Registered Nurse
Day Kimball Hospital
01.2002 - 06.2016
Operating Room Registered Nurse
Windham Community Memorial Hospital
09.1999 - 01.2002
Registered Nurse, Medical-Surgical Unit
Day Kimball Hospital
05.1999 - 09.1999
Medical Assistant/RN
St Luke's Family Practice
10.1993 - 08.1999
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
University of Connecticut
Associate of Science - Medical Assisting
Quinebaug Valley Community College
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